Worry…we all do it at one time or another, and some of us are even chronic worriers. What makes us worry? Usually, we’re thinking about something that “might” happen. Yet understanding that there’s nothing in life we can actually control, it may be helpful to remember that worrying has absolutely no value…other than to deplete our energy, our health and our joy! So it’s really in our best interest to try to minimize the worry in our lives. How? Here are a few ways to help tame the worry beast:

Try a breathing exercise. Even if you only have a few moments, try and step aside and spend some time focusing on relaxed, deep breathing.

Keep a list of positive affirmations/reminders that keep you focused when your thoughts to turn into an anxiety whirlwind. Thinking positive thoughts and using positive words when times get tough can encourage you to see the brighter side of things and not let the stress of the situation take over!

Just get outside and move! Walk, jog, take a bike ride or even swim outdoors if the weather’s just right. Just being active outdoors can help you clear your mind and work through your worries. Even if you aren’t up to being active, simply taking in fresh air and sunshine is restorative, both physically and mentally. And when you think you don’t have time to take an outdoor break, recognize that that’s when you need it most!

Talking to a friend often takes a load of the mind. It helps to not feel so alone with in your fears.

Find a healthy way to get worry out of your mind by putting that nervous energy to good use. If you’ve got plenty of energy to worry and fret, might as well put that energy to work. Paint them out, write them out, exercise them out… the options are endless.

Practice mindfulness when interacting with people today. When you talk to someone, focus on staying in the moment and really listening. You may find that even casual “small talk” becomes more meaningful when you take the time to enjoy it!

“The power for creating a better future is contained in the present moment: You create a good future by creating a good present.” Eckhart Tolle, Author

The quality time families spend together in the present has a clear impact on the quality of their lives in the future. As parents, being truly present with our children is important, not only for the sake of our relationships with them, but also for our children’s well-being. So many big and small moments with children can be lost when parents are pre-occupied with activities or even thoughts about work, to-do’s, or personal issues. Such distractions diminish the joy that comes from being both physically and mentally present in family life. Conversely, many parents also allow children to engage in activities that interfere with opportunities to live in the moment with us. Increased use of technology, by both adults and children, can clearly add to these distractions and interferences. Whether it be extended television watching, cell phone use, or hours logged on a computer, electronic devices can serve to connect you to many things…often at the expense of the valuable “in the moment time” families can spend together. There are many different kinds of activities and moments together that families can enjoy when they switch off electronics. Provided below are some great technology-free options: Be playful… as a family, take time to play cards and board games, piece together puzzles, build a little obstacle course in the backyard, or create your own scavenger hunt. Be creative… do chalk drawings on the sidewalk, make photo collages, bake something, make seasonal decorations for your house, make a shadow box, build a birdhouse, make a terrarium, make a time capsule, draw, paint, listen to or make music together. Read Together… take time to read together or side by side. Family visits to the local library will open up new horizons for things to read and conversations to share. Family Exercise… do low impact activities together…walk, toss a ball around, play outdoor activities, bike). Find New Adventures… take day trips, explore your area through public transportation, rediscover nature. Perform Community Service… schedule family days to help in the community. Learn new fun skills… as a family, learn to juggle, spin a hula hoop, or do basic magic tricks. Talk… often times, families underestimate the value of talking together. Protect time with no devices on to simply talk, share, and discuss the events of the day. Do Chores Together… clean out closets, plan and do “DIY” projects, detail the family car, give your dog a bath, update family photo frames. Also… as a parent, if you would like some suggestions or advice on how to better understand the impact of technology on your children’s lives, the following articles may prove valuable. These articles are provided by an important area resource, the Center for Parenting Education. TELEVISION: TEACHER, TROUBLE MAKER, OR TOOL?

Contributor: Bill Lessa’s involvement in the arts spans his lifetime, and he wears many hats in both the private and public sectors. He is Vice President of Administration at Kathy Davis Studios, Executive Director of the Scatter Joy Center for the Arts, and president of the executive board for The Center for Parenting Education.

It’s the perfect freebie for March – our latest downloadable desktop and smart phone wallpaper from KATHY DAVIS™. Just in time for the return of spring, it’s an inspiring reminder to re-set, refresh, re-focus. Desktop wallpapers are available with or without a calendar; smart phone wallpapers include the art along with a quote. This month’s quote: “Find beauty in the smallest details.”

Click any of the links below to download the wallpaper size that works best for you. Once the image pops up in a new window, simply right click and save the image.

Go out of your way to uplift and encourage someone today. Be their biggest fan! To speak positively into someone’s life has immense effects. What are some simple ways you can uplift and encourage someone special in your life?

How did you first meet?
It was fourth grade and she was the new kid at school. I was drawn to her immediately, which is so weird for a kid to experience when I think back on it as an adult. I’ll never forget seeing her on the playground by the swings. It’s so cool to have such a vivid memory 20 years later.

What was your first date?
We’ve always been into the same music (except for her time as an ‘N Sync super-fan), so we went to a Battle of the Bands in our high school’s parking lot. It was awesome, and one of the bands playing that night ended up making it pretty big, and they were totally the soundtrack to the early years of our relationship. We still listen to them from time to time. Always brings back great memories.

What’s one of your favorite things about your spouse?
Definitely her selflessness. She gives and gives and gives to those around her. I love her for that. It’s inspiring, and I admire her for how she cares so deeply for her friends and family.

Why did you fall in love with your spouse?
So hard to answer this one… There are so many things about her that make her special, unique and dear to me. She’s just simply always been someone that I can’t live without. She completes me. No doubt about it.

About the proposal:

How was the question popped?
We were driving in my car, and I acted like it was breaking down, so I pulled over, popped the hood, asked her to come out and give me a hand and then popped the question. We spent the rest of the afternoon at our favorite restaurant and the evening celebrating with friends.

Was the location significant to you two?
It was the exact spot where I asked her to be my girlfriend when we were in high school. It may just be a parking lot, but it’s the most special parking lot on the planet to me (us).

What was the response?
Hysterical laughter, very loud expletives, followed by YES!

Valentine’s Day is the one day in the year dedicated to celebrating all the varieties of love relationships – between family members, romantic partners, and friends. Greeting cards are a great vehicle to help us express how we feel to those special people in our lives, and for Valentine’s Day, it’s nice to say just a little more to make it personal.

Let’s say you’ve found the perfect Valentine card, but there’s this voice in your head urging you to add a few words of your own – just to show a little effort. Kind of like going for the A+ instead of settling for the A! But what do you write in that blank space at the bottom of the page beyond XOXO and your signature? We’re here to help you find the words that say what’s in your heart!

FAMILY

Mom/Dad/Parents – Since a parent is the nucleus of the family, this one’s pretty important! Consider mentioning something specific about why they’re so special to you. Think back to something they’ve done for you recently and thank them for it. Maybe it was a bit of advice or some help with a project or “rescuing” you from a difficult situation or just listening to you.

Daughter/Son – Your kids! You love ‘em to pieces, whether they’re young or grown! Why not remind them that you’re so proud of them for a specific accomplishment, that you appreciate them for something they’ve done or something that makes them unique, or that you just enjoy spending time with them?

• “I really admire your sportsmanship.” • “You’re such a thoughtful person – I love how you always remember to _____.” • “You’ve got the biggest heart.” “Love you so much for the caring/fun/considerate/ honest person you are.”

Granddaughter/Grandson – They’re the apple of your eye, the ones you love to spoil, even if they’re all grown up! Here, too, focusing on something that’s unique to them is the best possible sign-off! Let them know you’re proud of their accomplishments or tell them how much you enjoy their company and/or hearing from them.

• “Can’t wait to spend some time together soon so we can [bake cookies/play a game/catch up, etc.]” • “So thrilled to know you’re happy [at school/in your new home/with the new baby, etc.]”

ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS

Husband/Wife/Partner – When you’re in it for the happily-ever-after, you know how easy it is to just take stuff for granted. Here’s your chance to write an intimate little note to the most important person in your life. Mention something only the two of you would understand…use a pet name, reference an inside joke or compliment, or say you can’t wait to spend special alone time together.

Boyfriend/Girlfriend – Whether you’ve declared your love or you’re not quite “there” right now, this is the perfect opportunity to express yourself to that special someone. If you’re an established couple, you could reference a few romantic ideas mentioned above. If you’ve only been together for a few months, you could simply write something about time or experiences you’ve shared, or offer a compliment.

CARDS FOR THOSE SOMETIMES-TRICKY SENDING SITUATIONSBlended family “mom,” “dad” or kids. No matter your family’s make-up, it’s always nice to acknowledge your family members for the unique role they play in your life.

• For the “mom” or dad”: “So glad we’re in this together” or “Glad we’re family.” • For kids: “You’re so considerate! I love how you ______” • “You’re so dependable! I can always count on you to_______”

Brand new love interest. If you’re in a new relationship, keep your message light, fun (and flirty, if you’re comfortable. Consider referring to a fun moment from your last date.

• “Dinner was fun. Let’s do it again soon!”

No matter who your recipient is, it’s important to remember it’s the thought that matters – especially in this era of digital communication, when people truly value receiving greeting cards. So just have fun, don’t stress about it, and have a Happy Valentine’s Day!

How did you first meet?
We met in college at the University of the Arts in an Abnormal Psychology class, of all places.

What was your first date?
Our first date was drinks at the Good Dog Bar in Philly, and then we wandered around Rittenhouse Square and snuck into the fancy Rittenhouse Hotel to use the bathrooms. So romantic – haha.

What’s one of your favorite things about your spouse?
It’s hard to choose just one. I’d have to say he is the most genuinely warm and compassionate human being. It’s evident in the way he treats everything and everybody, whether it be our dog, an intern at his job, the mailman…he treats everyone with love and respect, no matter what.

Why did you fall in love with your spouse?
‘Cause he’s awesome. Ultimately, I think we just find joy in so many of the same things, and because we value many of the same things, it just feels like we are truly partners sharing this life. Love just happens from there.

About the proposal:

How was the question popped?
He intended to re-create our first date at Rittenhouse Square, but the day he had planned was in April, and it was the first beautiful day of spring that year, so the park was a complete mob scene. We had a fun day downtown, and as we were getting closer to the park, I said something like, “Ugh I don’t wanna go there; look how crowded it is. Let’s get coffee and go home!” So he chickened out, and we did, but the problem was that he had told our parents that today was the day. So we got in the car, and I could tell he was being weird. Finally he turned to me and said something like, “Ok, I just have to do this, ‘cause I don’t know what else to do,” and he had the ring. I laughed and said something like, “Really? Here in the car?!” Anyway, we had a laugh, I said yes, we went to our favorite restaurant for dinner that night, and it was perfect.

Was the location significant to you two?
No.

What was the response?
Laughter and slight awkwardness that quickly shifted to happiness and excitement.

Finish this statement:
Our engagement was so “us” because…
It was so silly and casual, and we are pretty silly and casual, so it turned out to be perfect If we had an over-the-top kind of thing, it honestly wouldn’t feel authentic to us. That’s why he didn’t even try to do it in the park. He knew I would have hated the attention that would have come with the crowds of people.

Happy February! With Valentine’s Day around the corner, we’re cherishing love this month with a special engagement series from our Kathy Davis Brand team members. From proposals in parks to parking lots, each story is sweetly inspiring and completely unique – just like each couple!

We hope you enjoy following along, and perhaps spend a little time cherishing the memories you share with your own special someone.

How did you first meet?Shaun lived in an apartment with seven other guys. My boyfriend (at the time) and I went there one night to watch Sopranos with one of Shaun’s roommates, who was a friend of mine. Shaun and I were introduced as Shaun was running out the door to go somewhere.

What was your first date?We went to the Kutztown Tavern for dinner.

What’s one of your favorite things about your spouse?He finds a way to make me feel special every day – whether it is a quick text to say “I love you” or a random hug while I am making dinner.

Why did you fall in love with your spouse?His blue eyes got my attention, but as I got to know Shaun, I could see he was genuine, kind, hardworking, down to earth… being with him felt like being “home.”

About the proposal:

How was the question popped?We went to Tyler State Park for a walk on a summer evening. We sat down in a field to watch the sun set. As we were sitting together he took the ring out of his pocket and asked me to marry him.

Was the location significant to you two?Yes. We would go there all the time to walk the trails, picnic and creek walk.

What was the response?I said yes.

Finish this statement: Our engagement was so “us” because…We were outside surrounded by nature, which we both love. A unique part of that particular evening was that we noticed Monarch butterflies everywhere – they must have been migrating, because I had never seen so many at one time before.

We’re excited to offer another free wallpaper download from KATHY DAVIS™. Whether you’re at work or on the go, may they provide a beautiful backdrop for you to Create a Life You Love! Desktop wallpapers are available with or without a calendar; smart phone wallpapers include the art along with a quote. This month’s quote: “LIVE WELL · LAUGH OFTEN · LOVE MUCH.”

Click any of the links below to download the wallpaper size that works best for you. Once the image pops up in a new window, simply right click and save the image.

Balance” has become a kind of holy grail for our increasingly crazy-busy times. We know instinctively when our lives are out of balance…we may have difficulty sleeping, find ourselves stress-eating, feel resentful for not having time for the things we enjoy, or simply feel afraid that life is just passing too darn fast. But the good news is that finding balance is a conscious choice, and that means we can take control and reintroduce it into our daily lives. Here are just a few ways to do that.

• Use your usual TV time to relax in a different way. Set your DVR for your favorite shows, and go for a walk, read, play a board game with your family, etc.

• Take an hour on Sundays to plan/make your lunches and dinners for the next week to help save you time and keep you eating healthier.

• Look to exercise as a restorative. It helps your body, clears your brain, and improves your mood and spirits in the most stressful of times. While finding time to exercise can be difficult at first, once you make it part of your routine, it actually becomes something to look forward to!

• Find time throughout the day to take three deep, cleansing breaths to slow the body down and help promote a sense of calm. You might establish a trigger activity that reminds you to stop and breathe, like every time you put down your phone, or after you check your email.

• Make a list of friends or family you’d like to connect with, then think about how you’d like to do that. It might be having coffee, lunch or dinner together (at a restaurant or at home), seeing a movie…or simply sending a card just to say hi and let them know you’re thinking of them. This will keep you feeling connected to the people you care about and will help you find more balance in your relationships.

We’ve all heard of the countless benefits that come from doing yoga, and everyone’s been telling you how great it is…and the truth is, you’ve been thinking about it. But where do you begin? Whether you’re a Brand New Beginner or coming back to the mat for the first time in years, starting a yoga practice can be intimidating! But it doesn’t have to be! Here are a few tips for getting onto that mat (and staying there)!

• Come as you are! Many people think they are not “strong enough” or “flexible enough” to do yoga. The thing is, Yoga doesn’t require that of you. Instead it will help to cultivate those qualities in both your body and mind. And trained teachers will always know how to modify things to make the practice accessible.

• Find the right fit. There is LOTS of yoga out there—and it’s not all the same! Try different studios, different classes, different teachers, even different styles, and see what resonates with you. And remember that just because you have a bad experience in one place doesn’t mean you will at the next!

• Tell them you’re there. Be sure to let the teacher know that you are new to Yoga at the start of the class. This alerts them to provide you with a bit of extra attention to be sure that you are safe and well taken care of. Also, if you’re new to a studio, you’ll want to arrive just a few minutes early to fill out paperwork and get the lay of the land.

• Take advantage of being the “new kid.” Many studios and gyms have classes (or even series) designed specifically for beginners. These can be a great entry point! And lots of studios offer a “new student rate,” giving you several classes at a discounted price. Take advantage of these promotions, and visit several classes with several teachers to really get a feel for the vibe of that particular yoga center.

• Give it the ‘ole college try (and then some). Once you find something that feels right, commit to a month of regular practice. Give yourself the opportunity to fall into a bit of a rhythm. The point of yoga is not about the “one off,” it’s about developing a relationship with the practice over time. So allow yourself the time to really feel the changes in your body and attitude, and then decide how to move forward. You might just surprise yourself!

Contributor: Blue Banyan Yoga is a Vinyasa yoga studio and school in the heart of Mt. Airy, Philadelphia.

Yoga that meets you where you are…at home, at work, in all stages of life and for all levels…Because we believe that everyone can benefit from the practice of Yoga – no exceptions.

Begin each month on a positive note with a new inspirational quote and expressive art from KATHY DAVIS™! Download our desktop and smart phone wallpapers absolutely free. Desktop wallpapers are available with or without a calendar; smart phone wallpapers include the art along with a quote. This month’s quote: “Be mindful of the beauty in every day.”

Click any of the links below to download the wallpaper size that works best for you. Once the image pops up in a new window, simply right click and save the image.